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  Geebo 9:00 am on December 26, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,487 ), shut off scam ( 18 ), utility scam ( 33 ), winter weather ( 7 )   

  Stay Warm, Stay Safe: Avoid Utility Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  As temperatures across Texas plunge into near or below-freezing conditions, the season’s first major cold snap brings not only frosty weather but also heightened risks of scams targeting residents. Cold weather presents a unique opportunity for scammers to exploit people’s concerns about maintaining access to heat and other essential utilities. Understanding how these schemes operate and knowing your rights can help protect you and your family from falling victim.

  Cold-weather utility scams often take the form of urgent texts, calls, or emails from individuals impersonating utility companies. These fraudulent communications typically claim that service will be disconnected immediately unless payment is made. This pressure tactic relies on fear, especially during freezing conditions when heat is critical. Scammers may request payment through untraceable methods, direct users to fake payment portals, or provide misleading callback numbers.

  For residents of Texas, it is important to know that utility companies are legally restricted from disconnecting electric or gas services under certain cold weather conditions. Regulations stipulate that disconnection cannot occur when the previous day’s high temperature did not exceed 32 degrees Fahrenheit and the temperature is forecasted to stay at or below freezing for the next 24 hours, as verified by the nearest National Weather Service station. These rules are in place to ensure that no resident is left without heat during dangerously cold weather, barring specific safety concerns.

  If you receive a notice threatening disconnection, it’s crucial to stay calm and verify the claim. Instead of responding to the message, contact your utility company directly using a phone number from a trusted source, such as your latest bill or the company’s official website. Do not rely on links or numbers provided in unsolicited messages, as these are common tactics used by scammers.

  Scammers also employ various strategies to lend credibility to their schemes. They may claim that your automatic payment failed or that there’s a technical issue with the company’s usual payment system, pushing you to use an alternative link or pay over the phone.

  Residents in other cold-weather locations should also remain vigilant. Similar scams are known to surface during winter across the country, exploiting local weather conditions and utility regulations. Knowing your rights and understanding shut-off laws in your area can be an invaluable defense. Many states have cold-weather disconnection policies, and it’s worth reviewing these rules through your state’s public utility commission.

  To further safeguard yourself, review your utility provider’s guidelines on communication and payment procedures. Many companies provide details about how they handle delinquent accounts, what information they request over the phone, and how to identify their employees.

  Staying informed and cautious can ensure that you remain warm and secure during winter’s coldest days, without falling prey to fraudulent schemes. If you believe you’ve encountered a utility scam, report it to your state’s utility commission or a consumer protection agency. Your vigilance helps not only you, but others in your community avoid becoming victims of these scams.

   

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  Geebo 9:00 am on December 17, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: bank fraud ( 28 ), bank scam ( 76 ), impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,487 ), Zelle ( 70 )   

  New Zelle Protections Haven’t Changed Anything 

  

  By Greg Collier

  For years, consumers have been targeted by a common and deceptive scheme: scammers posing as bank representatives convincing victims to use Zelle to ‘protect’ or recover their money. Despite growing awareness of this tactic, the outcome for victims has often been devastating, leaving them with little recourse and significant financial loss.

  Zelle and the banks behind it have long faced criticism for not doing enough to protect consumers. In response to mounting pressure, Zelle announced a new policy in late 2023 that banks would be required to reimburse customers for certain types of scams. The wording of this policy included an important caveat. Banks would refund consumers for “qualifying imposter scams”.

  The intent of the new policy was to create stronger protections for victims of fraud. However, recent cases suggest these so-called new guidelines are not much different from the old ones. Banks continue to deny reimbursements based on the familiar rationale that customers ‘authorized’ the transactions. This remains the linchpin argument banks use to place responsibility on consumers, even when the authorization occurred under false pretenses orchestrated by scammers.

  A recent incident illustrates how easily someone can fall victim to this type of fraud. A couple was contacted by someone claiming to be from Wells Fargo’s fraud department. The phone number even appeared to belong to the bank, thanks to modern spoofing technology. The caller asked about supposed fraudulent activity, reassured the couple that their funds would be safe, and then walked them through a series of Zelle transactions. Only later did they realize it was all a scam, and they had lost thousands of dollars.

  Despite reporting the incident to their bank, their request for reimbursement was denied. The bank cited the fact that the transactions were ‘authorized’. This reasoning aligns with the longstanding defense that if customers themselves approve the transfer, even under pressure or misinformation, the responsibility remains with them.

  Zelle’s official stance highlights a crucial ambiguity in their policy. The company has stated that not all scams involving imposters qualify for reimbursement, but they refuse to share the criteria for ‘qualifying’ cases. According to Zelle, disclosing this information would give criminals a playbook for avoiding detection. This lack of transparency leaves consumers frustrated and uncertain about whether they can expect any protection at all.

  The central issue remains that scammers have become increasingly adept at manipulating technology to exploit consumer trust. Policies promising reimbursement offer a glimmer of hope, but the reality for many victims has not improved. While Zelle and participating banks claim they are addressing the problem, their actions suggest otherwise. Until clearer and stronger protections are implemented, consumers must remain vigilant and cautious with unsolicited calls and Zelle transactions.

  For now, the lesson remains the same: don’t trust caller ID, don’t act under pressure, and always verify directly with your bank.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on December 16, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: celebrity scam ( 3 ), impersonation scam, imposter scam ( 4 ), impostor scam ( 17 ), romance scam ( 75 ), Scams ( 1,487 )   

  Celebrity Impersonation Scams: A Cruel Deceit 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scams are not a reflection of intelligence or sophistication. They are meticulously crafted traps that prey on human vulnerability, trust, and sometimes, loneliness. A recent incident in Marysville, Washington, underscores the devastating impact such schemes can have on unsuspecting individuals and their families. It is a sobering reminder that anyone, regardless of age or life experience, can fall victim to these malicious tactics.

  The story involves a 73-year-old grandmother who became the target of an elaborate scam involving a fake social media profile impersonating a well-known cable news anchor. Drawn into the scheme by a seemingly innocuous online interaction, she was manipulated into sending tens of thousands of dollars under the guise of helping a beloved pet and maintaining a fabricated romantic relationship. The financial loss was substantial, but the emotional toll on her and her family was just as profound.

  This case reveals a critical truth about scams: they thrive on emotional manipulation. By targeting feelings of trust, love, or even fear, scammers bypass rational thought and exploit their victims’ inherent goodness. For older adults, especially those who may experience loneliness or isolation, the risk is even greater. A scammer’s attention can fill a void, making the fabricated relationship feel real and meaningful.

  Loneliness among seniors is a pervasive issue that extends beyond financial fraud. Social isolation can lower defenses, making individuals more susceptible to manipulation. When someone feels unseen or undervalued, a scammer’s feigned affection or friendship can provide a dangerous sense of connection. Unfortunately, this bond is nothing more than a tool for exploitation.

  The incident in Marysville also challenges stereotypes about scam victims. The woman involved was intelligent, with a successful career spanning decades. Yet, even her sharp instincts were dulled by the careful, persistent efforts of the scammer. This reminds us that no one is immune. Scammers adapt their tactics to each victim, creating narratives that resonate deeply and feel believable, no matter how absurd they may seem in hindsight.

  Family members often face the heartbreaking challenge of intervening. Despite two attempts to dissuade the victim in this case, the emotional hold of the scammer proved difficult to break. Families should approach these situations with empathy and understanding, recognizing that victims often feel a mix of shame, embarrassment, and continued loyalty to the scammer. Open, non-judgmental conversations about financial safety and online behavior are essential to preventing such incidents.

  Law enforcement and advocacy organizations are working to combat these schemes, but the responsibility also lies with society to better protect vulnerable populations. Awareness and education are crucial. Friends and family members can play a pivotal role by staying connected, fostering open communication, and regularly discussing the realities of online fraud.

  This is not just about safeguarding money, it’s also about protecting dignity and emotional well-being. Scams don’t just drain bank accounts, they fracture trust and leave lasting scars. By addressing the root causes, like loneliness and isolation, and promoting vigilance, we can help shield our loved ones from falling into these traps.

  To anyone reading this, let the Marysville case be a reminder. Scams are an equal-opportunity threat. They exploit what makes us human, our capacity for trust, love, and empathy. The best defense is staying informed, connected, and supportive of one another. Together, we can close the door on those who prey on vulnerability and ensure that stories like this become less common in the future.

   
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  Geebo 9:02 am on November 19, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: email ( 7 ), government scams ( 8 ), impersonation scam, phishing ( 80 ), Scams ( 1,487 )   

  New Phishing Scam Uses .GOV Emails 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In an unsettling turn of events, cybercriminals are exploiting trust in government systems to target businesses. Using stolen government email credentials, these criminals send fraudulent emails that appear legitimate, aiming to trick companies into sharing sensitive information. According to federal authorities, this tactic has escalated to a new level of sophistication, with attackers leveraging official-looking communications to gain access to confidential company data.

  Once considered a hallmark of trustworthiness, emails from .gov addresses are no longer a guaranteed sign of authenticity. These addresses are now being sold and misused on dark web forums, enabling criminals to pose as federal agencies. In one case, a known cybercriminal openly advertised their collection of high-quality .gov email credentials, boasting that they could assist buyers in impersonating law enforcement officers, even providing fake subpoena documents to make their ruse more convincing.

  The implications are serious. Businesses that fall for these scams may inadvertently expose customer data, internal documentation, or trade secrets. The fraudulent emails often include urgent requests, claiming an investigation or legal matter requires immediate action. Under the guise of government authority, companies are pressured into complying without verifying the legitimacy of the request.

  The FBI has issued warnings, urging businesses to remain vigilant and adopt stringent cybersecurity practices. Key recommendations include monitoring connections with third-party vendors, maintaining secure backups of critical data, and scrutinizing every aspect of any supposed emergency data request. Special attention should be given to details such as logos, legal references, and formatting, which may reveal subtle inconsistencies.

  One critical piece of advice is if you receive an email from a government address requesting sensitive information, do not respond immediately. Instead, contact the office directly through a verified phone number to confirm the request. Cybercriminals are adept at social engineering, using their knowledge of a company’s operations to craft emails that seem authentic. It’s essential to adopt a ‘trust but verify’ approach, even when the sender appears legitimate.

  The growing prevalence of these attacks highlights the evolving threat landscape. Companies must stay informed, invest in robust security measures, and foster a culture of skepticism toward unexpected or urgent requests. By doing so, they can protect themselves and their customers from falling victim to these sophisticated scams.

   
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  Geebo 9:00 am on November 18, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: Apple ( 33 ), FTC ( 17 ), gold bars ( 10 ), impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,487 )   

  Fake Apple Email Led to a $430,000 Gold Bar Scam 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the quiet town of Prescott, Wisconsin, a woman’s financial nightmare began with what appeared to be a legitimate email from Apple. The message warned her that her IP address had been compromised, prompting her to call a number provided. That call set off a chain of events that ultimately drained her retirement savings, costing her more than $430,000. The funds, which she converted into gold bars at the direction of scammers, vanished without a trace.

  Her story is one of nearly 50 reported cases in Wisconsin, where victims have collectively lost approximately $13 million to similar scams. These schemes are highly sophisticated, targeting older individuals with significant savings by exploiting their trust in well-known companies and government agencies.

  The email appeared harmless, a routine security alert from Apple. Trusting the brand, the woman dialed the number provided and was connected to someone claiming to be the head of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The imposter warned her that her identity had been stolen, and her bank accounts were at risk. To protect her funds, he advised her to liquidate her savings and purchase gold bars. These, he assured her, would be safeguarded by the Federal Reserve.

  The scammers maintained an air of urgency, keeping constant contact and coaching her to lie to bank tellers, claiming she was helping a family member with business investments. After purchasing the gold, couriers arrived at her home to collect it. They promised the gold was secure, but it was gone for good.

  In this instance, couriers were pivotal. Tasked with retrieving the gold bars, they traveled extensively, their movements spanning multiple states. Fortunately, some were apprehended during coordinated sting operations, but these arrests only touched the surface of a broader, more insidious network. Such schemes often originate overseas, beyond the reach of local law enforcement.

  For victims, justice offers little consolation. The Prescott woman has yet to recover a dime of her stolen savings, and the chances of restitution are slim. The emotional and financial toll persists, leaving her fearful of even basic financial activities.

  Scammers often impersonate trusted brands like Apple or even government officials to manipulate their victims. It’s crucial to remember that legitimate companies such as Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Facebook will never tell you if your bank account has been compromised. They do not have access to that information. Likewise, the FTC and its officials will never demand immediate financial actions or direct you to purchase gold.

  If you receive a suspicious call or email, hang up or delete it immediately. Contact the company or organization directly using verified contact information from their official website. If someone claims to be from your bank, end the call and dial your bank’s official number to confirm the legitimacy of the request. Scammers rely on fear and urgency, but taking a moment to verify can protect you from becoming their next victim.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 29, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: elderly ( 12 ), impersonation scam, isolation, paypal ( 12 ), paypal scam ( 13 ), Scams ( 1,487 )   

  Scam Victim Loses $800K in a Year 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Scams are evolving into more sophisticated, emotionally manipulative schemes, exploiting trust and fear over extended periods. A recent heartbreaking case in Lincoln, Nebraska, highlights the alarming extent to which scammers can operate undetected, draining not just financial resources but also the emotional well-being of their victims.

  A 79-year-old woman fell prey to a scam that began innocuously, an attempt to dispute an unauthorized PayPal transaction. This simple act, meant to protect her finances, set off a catastrophic series of events. In what is becoming an increasingly familiar tactic, a scammer contacted the woman, posing as someone investigating her claim. Rather than offering help, this individual ensnared her in an elaborate scheme that lasted over a year.

  Throughout this time, the scammer slowly but methodically isolated the woman, ensuring she stayed dependent on them for resolution. Each interaction with the fraudster appeared necessary, a means to resolve what seemed like an escalating crisis. The scammer convinced the victim that ongoing payments, ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 at a time, were essential for the supposed investigation to continue.

  Payment methods like Bitcoin and gift cards were deliberately chosen to make the transactions difficult to trace and recover. By the end of 2023, the woman had already lost $400,000. But the deception did not end there. By the time police were involved, her losses had reached a staggering $800,000.

  What makes this story especially tragic is not only the financial loss, but the psychological isolation the scammer imposed. Over the course of a year, the victim became more and more reliant on the scammer, cut off from potential sources of support and advice. The scammer’s tactics ensured that any skepticism or outside intervention was avoided, perpetuating the cycle of deceit. Scammers often exploit vulnerabilities, including the fear of embarrassment or distrust in official channels, to keep victims silent.

  Lincoln Police underscored the importance of quick action in such situations, urging those who suspect fraud to report it immediately and break all contact with scammers. This case is a reminder that even seemingly legitimate inquiries, like disputing a PayPal charge, can become a gateway to complex scams. PayPal itself emphasizes that it will never ask for sensitive personal information, such as passwords or SMS codes, through unofficial channels like emails or phone calls.

  This story also highlights the critical need for loved ones to stay engaged, especially with elderly family members, who are often targeted due to their trusting nature and unfamiliarity with new forms of financial fraud. Recognizing the signs of isolation and frequent unexplained financial transactions can make the difference between preventing further loss and enduring the emotional toll that follows such scams.

  As scams become increasingly sophisticated, fostering open conversations about fraud is essential. Victims should know they are not alone and that help is available. Early intervention can save not just money but also prevent the devastating isolation that allows these fraudsters to operate for months, or even years.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 23, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: call forwarding, impersonation scam, phone scam ( 47 ), Scams ( 1,487 )   

  A Modern Scam Using Classic Phone Technology 

  

  By Greg Collier

  There was a time when dialing a few numbers on your landline could activate all kinds of convenient features. Remember *69? It was the go-to for identifying the last caller. *67 was every prankster’s friend, temporarily blocking your number from showing up on caller ID. Those star codes were an early taste of what we now take for granted with smartphones, quick shortcuts to control how our calls worked. Although landlines may have largely faded from daily use, some of these codes remain, quietly embedded into mobile networks today. But what was once a helpful feature is now being exploited in a way few would expect.

  Among the lingering * codes are *72 and **21, both still active in many cellular services. They allow users to forward calls from their phone to another number. It’s a practical function if you’re traveling or temporarily want another person to handle your calls. However, what was designed for convenience has become a tool for deception. Scammers have found ways to manipulate these codes to steal personal information and commit financial fraud, taking advantage of the trust we place in what feels familiar.

  Imagine receiving a phone call from someone posing as a representative from your bank, with just enough personal details to sound legitimate. They warn you about an urgent issue with your account and offer a quick solution: dial *72, followed by a ten-digit number, to ‘secure’ your line from suspicious activity. It sounds easy enough, and in the moment, with alarm bells ringing in your head, you might not think twice. But what actually happens when you follow those instructions?

  That simple string of numbers forwards all your incoming calls to a number controlled by the scammer. This means every call you receive, whether it’s a friend checking in or your bank calling to verify a suspicious transaction, gets rerouted. Worse still, if a scammer intercepts a call that contains a two-factor authentication code or a password reset link, they can easily access your financial accounts, email, or other sensitive platforms. The process is invisible to the victim, who only realizes too late that they’ve been locked out of their own information.

  If you find yourself in this situation, the good news is that turning off call forwarding is straightforward. On Verizon, dialing *73 disables it, while T-Mobile users can enter ##21#. But as with most scams, prevention is key. Awareness of these old * codes and how they can be abused today is essential to avoiding trouble.

  The lingering presence of these codes on modern networks serves as a reminder that even outdated technology can become a liability. Just as those old landline tricks once helped us control our phones, they now provide a pathway for modern criminals. The tools may be familiar, but the way they’re being used today is anything but.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on October 3, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: impersonation scam, phantom hacker scam ( 5 ), pop-ups ( 27 ), Scams ( 1,487 ), tech support scam ( 52 )   

  Phantom Hacker Scam is a Threat to Your Finances 

  

  By Greg Collier

  In the ever-evolving world of online crime, a new scam has emerged, targeting unsuspecting individuals under the guise of helping them. The FBI has recently highlighted the Phantom Hacker scam, a sophisticated three-pronged attack designed to trick people into handing over their money voluntarily.

  It all begins with a simple email or pop-up ad. The message alerts you to an issue with your computer and provides a phone number for tech support. When you call, a scammer on the other end will ask you to download a remote access program so they can ‘assist’ with the issue.

  Once you’ve allowed remote access, the scammer doesn’t address any problems. Instead, they create new ones. They claim your bank account has been compromised and instruct you to take steps to safeguard your money. This is where the scam shifts into its second phase. You receive a second phone call from someone posing as your bank’s security department, urging you to move your funds into a ‘crypto wallet’ for safekeeping.

  In the final phase, a third call comes from someone claiming to represent the government. This imposter will tell you that your crypto wallet is also compromised, but they can help by transferring your funds into a ‘safe wallet’. In reality, this so-called safe wallet belongs to the scammer, and your money is now gone.

  The name Phantom Hacker fits because victims believe they’ve been hacked, when in fact, they’ve been manipulated into transferring their money to the scammers. The scam doesn’t rely on advanced hacking techniques, just deception and social engineering.

  Unfortunately, this scam disproportionately targets older individuals, particularly those over 60. If you encounter unexpected pop-ups or emails, avoid engaging with them. Instead, contact your bank or tech support directly using verified phone numbers. Awareness is your best defense against falling victim to these tactics.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 26, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: debt collectors ( 11 ), impersonation scam, medical bills ( 3 ), Scams ( 1,487 )   

  Protect Yourself From Medical Billing Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  An Indiana resident recently faced an all-too-common frustration, scam calls disguised as legitimate business interactions. It began with what appeared to be a call from a collection agency regarding an unpaid medical bill. The call seemed convincing at first, especially considering recent blood work, but doubts surfaced when the agent refused to provide specific details, such as the doctor’s name or the date of service. Instead, the agent demanded immediate payment, threatening legal action if the bill wasn’t settled.

  Despite the pressure, the man and his wife took the right steps. They paused and double-checked with their insurance company and doctors, only to find no record of an outstanding bill. The situation escalated when the collection agency asked for a credit card number or check, to be mailed to a post office box in Florida. This raised significant red flags, as it became increasingly clear that the situation was a scam.

  Scammers are growing more sophisticated, often adopting the names of legitimate businesses. In this case, a reputable diagnostics company had its name misused by fraudsters. Medical billing scams are designed to exploit the complexity of healthcare systems, preying on people who are understandably confused by their bills. These fraudsters often apply pressure by threatening legal action, hoping to catch their victims off guard.

  Thankfully, the family never sent the payment. Instead, they did their research, verifying with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and finding that this was a known medical billing scam. Scammers can use tactics like spoofing phone numbers and mimicking local area codes to make their calls seem more legitimate.

  If you receive a call about an unfamiliar medical bill, take time to verify the details. Contact your doctor, insurance company, or hospital directly, rather than engaging with the caller. Legitimate collection agencies will provide clear information about the debt, and you should never be rushed into making a payment without confirmation. Debt collectors are required to provide what’s known as a debt verification letter. These letters are supposed to detail exactly where the supposed debt originated.

  As scammers continue to evolve, so must our defenses. Verifying claims, not giving in to scare tactics, and guarding personal information remain key to protecting yourself from fraud. Keep in mind that even though these scams can be frustrating and concerning, staying informed and cautious can make all the difference in avoiding financial loss.

   
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  Geebo 8:00 am on September 16, 2024 Permalink | Reply
  Tags: donation scam, funeral home scam ( 7 ), impersonation scam, Scams ( 1,487 )   

  Scammers Target Families with Funeral Scams 

  

  By Greg Collier

  Recently, two separate incidents have highlighted a disturbing trend: scammers are targeting grieving families, preying on their vulnerability during times of profound loss. These scams, which involve either phone calls or fake social media accounts, have surfaced in different parts of the country, exploiting the emotional weight of funeral arrangements to steal money.

  In one case, a fake Facebook account was created in the name of a recently deceased Georgia police officer, falsely offering a livestream of the funeral service and soliciting donations. Investigators believe the scammer gathered information from the funeral home’s website to make the fraudulent account seem legitimate.

  Another scam involved phone calls to families in Alabama who had recently lost a loved one. Posing as representatives of a funeral home, the callers demanded payment for services. In one instance, the scammer almost managed to steal a large sum before the family became suspicious and contacted the funeral home. Fortunately, no money was lost in this case, but the situation underscores the importance of vigilance during emotionally difficult times.

  These incidents reveal how scammers manipulate personal information easily accessible online to exploit grieving families. Funeral homes have been quick to respond, ensuring that their clients know they will never request payment by phone or through social media. Unfortunately, tracking the culprits behind these scams is difficult, particularly when the calls or accounts originate from outside the country.

  Families dealing with loss are encouraged to be cautious and report any suspicious activity to authorities immediately. Funeral homes are also reminding families to verify any communication they receive related to payments and to rely on established, secure methods for handling financial transactions.

  These scams are not only financially damaging, but also emotionally devastating for families already coping with profound grief. It is essential to raise awareness about this troubling trend and to help protect those who may be at risk.